No less than 64 Killed in Rio de Janeiro's Most Extensive Police Raid on Gangs
At least 64 people lost their lives in a security raid against the organized crime group in the Brazilian city's northern districts - the most extensive and fatal action in the Brazilian state's past.
Four law enforcement personnel were included in the fatalities during Operation Containment in the Alemão and Penha districts, state officials stated. In excess of 80 suspects were detained.
Intense confrontations commenced when about 2,500 law enforcement officers entered the area on Tuesday morning. The Comando Vermelho countered with armed resistance, igniting obstacles and launching explosives via unmanned aircraft, authorities said.
The UN Human Rights Office said it was "appalled" by the law enforcement raid, calling for "immediate and thorough inquiries".
Raid Aftermath
The area of favelas near the aerial transportation hub is regarded as the central command of one of Brazil's most powerful organised crime groups.
Local authorities said a minimum of 50 of the deceased were "identified by authorities as alleged offenders".
Dozens of people were injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Local Reaction
Residents have likened the mountainous region - housing around 300,000 individuals - to a "combat area" since the operation began.
Transport routes stay blocked in the entire neighborhood.
Criminal Expansion
The Comando Vermelho organization have been expanding their territory across the Rio state, growing illegal substance trade paths and dominance over the slum communities.
Security forces reported in excess of 200kg (441lb) of narcotics were confiscated in the raid, along with multiple guns.
Mission Context
The combined action by various security forces follows a year-long investigation.
Many of the individuals are considered participants in an organization from the Brazilian state who are at the moment taking refuge in Rio de Janeiro.
Wider Perspective
Major law enforcement actions are frequent in the South American nation before major international events in the South American nation.
The international environmental meeting the climate conference is scheduled in the city of Belem in the north in late autumn.
